The Houthis of Yemen, aligned with Iran, are intensifying their involvement in the Middle East conflict by targeting shipping in the Red Sea and launching drones and missiles at Israel. They claim that their campaign is in support of Palestinians in the Gaza war.
In response to the Houthi attacks, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced on Tuesday the establishment of a multinational operation to safeguard commerce in the Red Sea.
The escalating role of the Houthis is heightening regional risks in the conflict, jeopardizing crucial sea lanes used for shipping much of the world’s oil.
Additionally, the trajectory of Houthi rockets and drones towards Israel is causing concern among states bordering the Red Sea.